Bhubaneswar: A team of researchers from IIT Bhubaneswar has developed a solar-powered microwave pyrolysis reactor to extract valuable resources from different types of waste, including both segregated and mixed materials such as biomass and plastic. The team has been granted an Indian patent for this technology, which uses microwave radiation to generate uniform heat within the feedstock.
Researchers from IIT Bhubaneswar’s School of Infrastructure said the reactor can rapidly convert waste into highly porous carbonaceous material (biochar) and bio-oil, depending on the feedstock characteristics and operating conditions.Studies suggest that biochar could be a promising replacement for coal, while bio-oil can be an alternative to petroleum products.
Remya Neelancherry, the project’s lead researcher, said that current solid waste management methods, like incineration, biogas plants, or landfill disposal, offer limited recycling opportunities. “Incineration, while an alternative to landfilling, often leads to significant environmental pollution due to the release of toxic gases and ashes. Our research offers a promising solution to these challenges,” she added.

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